The Otari DTR-900 is a state-of-the-art 1-inch multi-channel digital tape recorder introduced in 1986, designed for mastering and post-production environments demanding the highest standards in audio fidelity and reliability. Built around the Professional Digital (PD) recording format, which was co-developed with Mitsubishi and AEG, the DTR-900 offers full compatibility with all PD format machines, including the Mitsubishi X-850. Otari’s proprietary microprocessor-controlled pinchroller transport ensures superior tape handling, proven over many years in their widely respected MTR-90II recorders.
Available in both 32-channel and expandable 24-channel configurations, the DTR-900 can accommodate up to 32 channels of digital audio, thanks to its use of the PD format’s 45-track layout. This includes 32 tracks for digital audio, 8 for parity, 2 for analogue reference audio, 2 auxiliary digital data channels, and one track dedicated to SMPTE EBU time-code data. The PD format enables audio data to be recovered from even the most severe dropouts, and allows up to eight of the 32 digital audio tracks to be used for overdub or insert editing without requiring a full re-record.
The Otari DTR-900 features a 16-bit linear PCM system with 48.414 kHz sampling, along with built-in Reed-Solomon error correction, CRC protection, and digital circuitry that ensures virtually jitter-free operation. The unit also integrates standard 16-bit linear encoding and supports switchable 44.1 kHz and 48.414 kHz sampling rates for seamless compatibility with other formats.
The system is fully synchronisable via SMPTE/EBU time-code and supports master or slave sync operation via parallel or serial control interfaces. With a built-in time-base corrector, time-code reader/generator, 1kHz varispeed control, and support for synchronisation down to video frame resolution, the Otari DTR-900 offers precise alignment for multi-format video and audio post environments.
Engineered for high-performance and low maintenance, the Otari DTR-900 delivers more than 90 dB dynamic range with a frequency response of 20 Hz to 20 kHz ±1 dB, and extremely low wow and flutter due to its quartz crystal oscillator. Additional features include automated punch-in/punch-out, ping-pong recording, time-code auto-location, and user-assignable transport control switches.
With a robust design and powerful architecture, the Otari DTR-900 stands as a milestone in digital multitrack recording, delivering unmatched reliability and precision in professional studio workflows.
Features
- Compatible with the PD (Professional Digital) format developed with Mitsubishi and AEG
- Available in 32-channel and 24-channel expandable configurations
- Otari’s microprocessor-controlled pinchroller transport
- Uses 1-inch tape with 45 tracks including 32 digital audio, 8 parity, and 5 auxiliary/control tracks
- Built-in time-base corrector and SMPTE/EBU time-code generator/reader
- Standard 16-bit linear PCM with 48.414 kHz sampling (switchable to 44.1 kHz)
- Reed-Solomon error correction with CRC for reliable data integrity
- Up to 8 tracks can be used for overdub or insert editing without full re-recording
- Low jitter and wow/flutter thanks to quartz crystal oscillator
- User-assignable transport controls and punch-in/punch-out automation
